Kirk Murdoch, the chairman of Pinsent Masons in Scotland and Northern Ireland, has died following a battle with illness.

A self-described “unrepentant Ayrshireman”, his legal career spanned more than 35 years. He was one of the architects of the merger between Pinsent Masons and McGrigors in 2012.

He became a partner in legacy firm McGrigor Donald in 1982, and went on to serve with distinction as the firm's managing partner and later as its senior partner. He sat on the board of the enlarged Pinsent Masons until stepping back late last year.

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At the time of the deal, McGrigors was the largest Scots law firm by turnover with £70m in annual revenues. The acquisition sealed Pinsent Mason's position as a heavyweight on the Scottish scene.

Described as “deeply passionate” about the business, its clients and its staff, Murdoch was also a committed sportsman.

He captained Ayr Rugby Club in his youth and played with a “very rusty” handicap of eight as a member of Troon Prestwick and latterly Archerfield.

He remained committed to his home region throughout his life, sitting on the board of Ayr Renaissance – an organisation committed to the regeneration of Ayr town centre – and the Glasgow-based Beatson cancer centre.

Richard Foley, senior partner of Pinsent Masons, said he was a “man o' pairts”.

“For very many years, Kirk has been a huge influence in our firm,” Foley said. “He was a natural leader and his ambition for the firm – and indeed for the wider Scottish legal profession – marked him out as one of the most distinguished lawyers of his generation.